Madhya Pradesh is expected to receive an early onset of the southwest monsoon, with its arrival projected around June 15–16, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The seasonal rains are likely to cover the entire state within five days, offering a timely boost for the upcoming agricultural season. Unlike previous years—when the monsoons entry was delayed, as in 2024, when it arrived on June 21—this years early monsoon aligns with IMDs broader forecast for an early onset over India by May 27. The monsoon is expected to enter MP through its eastern districts, including Mandla, Seoni, Dindori, Balaghat, and Anuppur, which are predicted to receive the highest rainfall during the initial phase. Meanwhile, pre-monsoon activity has already intensified across the state. On Saturday, regions like Gwalior and Mandla saw evening showers, while Dindori experienced intense rain for about 30 minutes, causing a sharp drop in temperature by 8°C to settle at 31°C. In Betuls Chicholi, strong winds reportedly damaged the roofs of six houses. A senior IMD meteorologist attributed these weather conditions to two active systems, resulting in widespread instability. Light rain and thunderstorms are expected to continue through May 13, impacting over 40 districts, including Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, Jabalpur, Bhind, Datia, Neemuch, Mandsaur, Ratlam, and Khargone. Additional rainfall activity is likely in districts such as Burhanpur, Harda, Sagar, Narmadapuram, Betul, Chhindwara, Rewa, and Balaghat, as per the IMDs latest bulletin. On Friday, rain and thunderstorms were reported in parts of Bhopal, Sheopur, Betul, and Shivpuri, with daytime temperatures remaining under 40°C—Bhopal recorded 34.2°C, Indore at 34°C, and Gwalior at 37.6°C. Pachmarhi remained the coolest at 30.6°C, while Khajuraho registered the highest temperature at 39.6°C. Encouragingly, the IMD has forecast better-than-normal rainfall across Madhya Pradesh this year, estimating 104–106% of the long-period average. Regions under the Jabalpur and Shahdol divisions are likely to witness the highest cumulative rainfall, while districts in Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, Gwalior, and Rewa divisions could see up to 150% of average rainfall. This projection has lifted the hopes of farmers and agricultural planners, especially in light of last years excess rainfall in 44 districts, including Bhopal and Jabalpur, which contributed significantly to a bumper crop of soybean and wheat. The IMDs earlier prediction from April 2025 of above-normal rainfall between June and September now seems increasingly probable, fueling optimism for a prosperous kharif sowing season. Agricultural experts have advised farmers to stay updated on weather advisories and prepare for timely sowing to make the most of the expected rains.With monsoon preparedness now underway, district administrations and agriculture departments are also coordinating efforts to ensure water conservation, seed availability, and crop insurance coverage, aiming to build resilience against both drought and excess rainfall scenarios. To ensure preparedness, the Madhya Pradesh Agriculture Department has begun coordinating with local Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) to disseminate timely advisories and updated crop calendars. Farmers are being encouraged to adopt climate-resilient practices, such as early sowing, contour farming, and crop diversification, especially in regions that may receive heavy and continuous rainfall. Agricultural extension workers are also promoting the use of high-yield and flood-resistant seed varieties to mitigate potential losses due to extreme weather. In tandem with these efforts, the states Disaster Management Authority has initiated pre-monsoon infrastructure checks, particularly focusing on low-lying and flood-prone areas. Drainage systems, embankments, and irrigation channels are being inspected and repaired to prevent urban flooding and waterlogging, which often disrupt both rural livelihoods and transportation during heavy spells. Authorities are also preparing emergency shelters and ensuring adequate stock of relief materials, signaling a proactive approach to monsoon management this year.

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